Salmon and dill have been a culinary pair for so long that it's time to introduce the fish to another herb just as complementary — basil. This slow one-sided cooking method is the easiest and most consistent when grilling fish.
Aperol is an aperitif with a bitter flavour that's made from infusions of bitter and sweet oranges and herbs. We've added fresh basil to this traditional Venetian favourite for a punchier cocktail.
Pesto adds pizzazz to this classic fall soup and is a great way to use up the last of the basil from the garden.
This seasonal pizza combines a heavenly trio of fresh ripe tomatoes, sweet and peppery basil and piquant garlic for authentic Italian flavour.
This sodium-reduced, vegetable-packed dinner is full of flavour and comes together in half an hour. Add a few fresh basil leaves for a pretty garnish.
Grilling broccoli may seem unorthodox, but it makes for a crispy texture that's simply addictive. The savoury basil and spicy sriracha balance out the sweetness of the strawberries.
Take advantage of the abundance of late-summer basil to prepare a batch of pesto (see below). Use it in a dressing, toss it with hot pasta, spread it on a pizza crust or mix it with mayonnaise for a sandwich spread.
Serve with: Rice and an oriental green vegetable, such as Chinese broccoli, snow peas or bok choy In Thailand many kinds of meat and seafood are stir-fried simply with chilies and aromatic Thai basil, but Italian basil makes a fine substitute. In Thailand this dish is usually fiery hot with chilies; we have tamed it here, but you can adjust it to your own taste. If raw cashews are unavailable, use roasted cashews and omit the skillet-toasting; add to pan 1 minute before sugar and lime juice.
Vegetable kabobs served in rolls or pitas with Garlicky White Bean and Basil Spread (recipe, below) make a satisfying vegetarian dinner. You can also serve them as a side dish. Add cherry tomatoes, sweet or hot peppers or onions to the skewers to your liking.
